Two Women Killed in Car Fire on 15th Street On-Ramp
A car fire on June 9 resulted in two fatalities in Sacramento when a Chevrolet Spark drifted off the roadway. The accident happened around 12:40 in the morning as the Chevy was going up the 15th Street on-ramp toward U.S. 50. According to a report by the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the right side of the vehicle drifted over into the dirt on the shoulder, which led to the accident. I would like to extend my prayers and sympathy to the families of those who died in this terrible tragedy.
Accident Details
The car traveled about 100 feet and struck a concrete pole. It went airborne and turned around half way before striking a tree, where it caught on fire. Two females were reported as being inside the vehicle but were unable to get out. The names of the deceased have not been released pending notification of the families by the coroner’s office. The CHP reported that it was too early in the investigation to know whether alcohol consumption or drugs contributed to the crash.
Single Vehicle Accidents
Single vehicle crashes are common. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, between 2014 and 2016, more than 171,000 vehicles experienced car fires every year during this period. About 345 people die in a car fire, and 1,300 are injured annually. Some of the causes of car fires include:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Loose or broken hoses
- Wiring problems
- Fluid leaks
- Problems with the exhaust
- Oil that has spilled underneath the hood
Why Cars Catch Fire in an Accident
Cars that catch on fire because of a collision are rather rare but can cause serious burn injuries. This is because all car fires require a source of ignition, oxygen, and fuel close together to ignite. Manufacturers tried to address this problem after the disaster with Ford Pintos that had a tendency to catch fire. According to the USFA, about 3 percent of vehicle collisions result in a car fire. Many of these are caused by mechanical issues, electrical problems, and fuel leaks.
Negligence That Can Cause a Vehicle Crash
Motorist negligence is the most common cause of vehicle crashes. However, not all accidents are due to driver error. Following are some common reasons for accidents:
- Drunk or drugged driving: Those who are intoxicated either by drugs or alcohol cannot drive safely. Drunk driving is a significant cause of accidents nationwide.
- Distracted driving: Texting or chatting on a cell phone, eating while driving, and other actions can lead to a crash.
- Poorly maintained roadways or bad design: A poorly designed or maintained roadway can cause an accident. The government entity responsible for the roadway can be held liable for damages.
- Fatigue: Falling asleep at the wheel or being less alert than necessary can lead to a crash.
- Traffic infractions such as speeding are common causes of accidents. A speeding driver is more likely to lose control of the vehicle, causing a crash.
- Defective vehicle parts: A defective steering wheel, accelerator, brakes, or tires can lead to an accident.
- Improper maintenance: Whether by a mechanic or the owner, not properly maintaining a vehicle can result in an accident or car fire.
Placing a Wrongful Death Claim
When negligence was the cause of a traffic or other fatality, the family may claim fair compensation for their loss. An experienced wrongful death lawyer can explain who is eligible to file and what options are open to the family to recover personal injury damages. While it will not lessen the grief of losing a loved one, it can help the family financially.
Sacramento Wrongful Death Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento wrongful death lawyer. Not all single-vehicle accident fatalities are caused by driver error. In some cases, other circumstances lead to the accident and the loss of a loved one. If you lost a family member because of negligence by another person or entity, I have free and friendly advice to offer. You can get in touch with me at (916) 921-6400 in the Sacramento area, or (800) 404-5400 from elsewhere. An online contact form is also available.
I am a member of the Million Dollar Advocates, which recognizes lawyers who have won more than $1 million for a client. I also belong to the National Association of Distinguished Counsel. It invites as members those lawyers it believes uphold excellent standards in the law.
I’ve worked hard for Sacramento residents to obtain compensation for their injuries since 1982. My practice areas include all kinds of motor vehicle crashes, bicycle accidents, and traumatic injuries.
Find out more about my law practice by visiting:
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/cementerio-flor-cemetery-death-948048/
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